So that the almond tree retains its enchanting shape and delights with a lush harvest, regular cutting is recommended. The cut serves to rejuvenate or thin out. In case of illness, it is considered a true miracle cure that can give new energy.
How do I prune my almond tree correctly?
To properly prune the almond tree, remove branch forks, inward-growing branches, crossing shoots, unnaturally growing shoots and old wood. The rejuvenation cut is carried out in winter, the thinning cut after the flowering period, and in the event of fungal infection, infected shoots are removed.
Golden rules for blending
These branches can go:
- Branch forks (danger of rot as rainwater can accumulate)
- branches growing inwards
- Shoots and branches crossing each other
- vertically and unnaturally growing shoots
- dead, old wood
- two-year-old shoots that have already bloomed
Annual shoots are cut so that the top bud faces outwards.
Rejuvenation
Winter is the perfect time for rejuvenation. Cutting back is often done in January when temperatures are at least 5 degrees Celsius. Cloudy, not sunny days are also suitable.
Lighting
The right moment for thinning comes directly after the flowering period. The aim of a generous amount of trimmings is to maintain the wonderful shape of the almond tree. Heavy pruning increases the number of flowers the following year. These promote a rich almond harvest.
Active in case of illness: fungal infection
As soon as danger is imminent, the gardener must cut back his almond tree immediately so that the fungal infection does not spread to the entire plant. The monilia fungus is one of the most common pests.
Identification signs of illness
The first indications of fungal infestation are the external appearance of the almond tree. Its shoots suddenly become dry and withered. The tree also secretes a thick, rubbery liquid.
Cut back correctly in case of fungal infestation
The clippings are concentrated on the diseased shoots. These are cut away until the he althy wood begins. In many cases, pesticides are not approved. This also applies to the frizz disease.
Nevertheless, renewed fungal infestation must be expected in the following year. The fungal spores often survive the winter even with good cutting.
For this reason, special attention should be paid to the correct pruning of almond trees. In addition, with the right care and a perfect location, many impending dangers can be successfully prevented.
Tips & Tricks
Regular pruning is not absolutely necessary for the almond bush. However, it should be borne in mind that the flowering will decline enormously if you don't take care of it from time to time. In the case of illness or fungal infection, this method is just as effective.